How do I get to the Hill of Crosses from Šiauliai city?

The Hill is about 12km north of the city. The easiest way is by taxi (15-20 minute ride) or rented car. There is also a local bus (bus #12 or #8 towards Joniškis) that stops near the site, requiring a short walk.

Is English widely spoken in Šiauliai?

In Šiauliai city, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites, you will find English speakers. In smaller towns and rural areas, it is less common, but younger people often know some basics. Learning a few Lithuanian phrases is appreciated.

What is a must-try local dish?

Try "cepelinai" (zeppelins)—large potato dumplings stuffed with meat or curd, served with sour cream and bacon bits. Also sample Šiauliai's famous dark rye bread and local cheeses.

Can I leave a cross at the Hill of Crosses?

Yes, visitors are welcome to leave a cross or other religious symbol. Small crosses are often sold by vendors near the site. It is a personal and respectful gesture.

Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the province?

While the Hill of Crosses is not a UNESCO site itself, it is a candidate and is considered a site of immense cultural and spiritual significance. The nearby Žemaičių Kalvarija (Samogitian Calvary) pilgrimage route is on Lithuania's tentative list for UNESCO.

Varies by nationality. EU citizens need no visa; others may require Schengen visa. Check with Lithuanian embassy.

What currency is used?

Euro (EUR). Credit cards widely accepted; ATMs available.

Is English widely spoken?

Younger people and service staff speak English; older generations may know Russian.

How to get to Šiauliai from Vilnius?

Direct bus (3.5 hours) or train (2.5 hours). Car rental also an option.

What is the Hill of Crosses?

A pilgrimage site with thousands of crosses, symbolizing Lithuanian resistance and faith. Free entry.

Are there guided tours?

Yes, local agencies offer tours to Hill of Crosses and city landmarks. Self-guided walking tours also popular.

What local food should I try?

Try cepelinai (potato dumplings), šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup), and kibinai (pastries).

Is Šiauliai safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, but take usual precautions: avoid isolated areas at night and stay aware.

Can I use my mobile phone?

EU citizens have roaming included. Others can buy local SIM cards from Telia, Bitė, or Pildyk.

What is the weather like in winter?

Cold, often below freezing, with snow. Pack warm layers, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots.

Are there any festivals?

Šiauliai Summer Festival in July, and the International Photography Festival. Check local events.

Is tap water safe to drink?

Yes, tap water is safe and of good quality.

Siauliai

ProvinceLithuania, Europe

Siauliai is a STATE in Lithuania, Europe.

Šiauliai Province in northern Lithuania offers travelers a fascinating blend of spiritual pilgrimage, historical depth, and serene natural landscapes. The undisputed highlight is the Hill of Crosses, a powerful and unique pilgrimage site where hundreds of thousands of crosses have been placed over centuries, symbolizing faith and national identity. The provincial capital, Šiauliai city, charms visitors with its blend of modern life and rich history, showcased at the Šiauliai Aušros Museum and the iconic Sundial Square. Beyond the urban center, the region unfolds into the picturesque Žemaičių Kalvarija (Samogitian Calvary) pilgrimage route and the tranquil beauty of Lake Rėkyva. Šiauliai is a gateway to understanding Lithuania's resilience and cultural heritage, from its medieval roots to its 20th-century struggles. The province provides a more authentic, less crowded Lithuanian experience compared to Vilnius or the coast, perfect for travelers seeking meaningful cultural encounters and peaceful countryside exploration.

Best time to visit Siauliai

Late May to September offers the warmest and sunniest weather, ideal for exploring the Hill of Crosses and the countryside. July and August are peak months. The shoulder seasons of May-June and September provide pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter (December-February) can be very cold and snowy but offers a stark, beautiful atmosphere at the Hill of Crosses. Major festivals like the City Day in September add cultural vibrancy.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 4 to 10°C, rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Autumn colors, quiet

Know before you go

Getting there

SQQ

Šiauliai International Airport

Domestic/Charter

7 km away

VNO

Vilnius Airport

International

200 km away

RIX

Riga International Airport

International

130 km away

PLQ

Palanga International Airport

International

140 km away

Getting around

"Šiauliai city has a reliable bus network for local transport. For exploring the province, renting a car is highly recommended as it provides freedom to visit the Hill of Crosses (12km north of the city), rural sites, and lakes. Taxis are affordable in the city; use reputable companies like Šiauliai Taxi or apps like Bolt. Bicycle rental is a good option for exploring the city and nearby lake areas. Inter-city trains and buses connect Šiauliai to Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+370

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low crime but occasional pickpocketing in busy areas. Night safety moderate; avoid dark alleys.

Night safety

7/10

Low crime but occasional pickpocketing in busy areas. Night safety moderate; avoid dark alleys.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Šiauliai is generally very safe for travelers. Violent crime is rare. Standard precautions against petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing in crowded areas, not leaving valuables in cars) are advised. The Hill of Crosses, while remote, is a major tourist site and safe during daylight hours. Driving at night in rural areas requires caution for wildlife and poorly lit roads. Scams are uncommon, but be wary of unofficial taxi drivers; use apps or pre-book. There are no specific no-go areas, but as anywhere, it's wise to avoid poorly lit, isolated places at night."

Police

112

Ambulance

112

Fire

112

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical care is of a good standard in Šiauliai city. The main public hospital is Šiauliai Republican Hospital. EU citizens should carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its UK/Irish equivalent for necessary state-provided healthcare. Non-EU travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. Pharmacies (\"vaistinė\") are widely available. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine ones. Tick-borne encephalitis is a risk in forested and grassy areas from spring to autumn; consider vaccination if hiking and use insect repellent. Tap water is safe to drink."

Culture

Local customs

"Lithuanians are generally reserved but polite and hospitable. A handshake is the common greeting. Dress modestly when visiting churches and the Hill of Crosses. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% in restaurants is customary for good service. It's polite to remove shoes when entering someone's home. Respect for the Hill of Crosses as a sacred site is essential—be quiet and contemplative. Avoid discussing Soviet-era politics unless your local companion initiates it."

LithuanianRussianEnglish (in tourist areas)

Costs and practicals

Currency

Euro (EUR) · €

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5-10 | a cheap local meal costs around $5-10

Hotels

$30-60 | budget hotels range $30-60/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Šiauliai is affordable compared to Vilnius; street food and markets offer great value.

Timezone

Europe/Vilnius +02:00 (GMT) / +03:00 (GMT) during Daylight Saving Time

More facts

Population

260,000

Area

8,540 km²

Government

Municipality (Šiauliai City Municipality acts as the administrative center for the county)

ISO code

LT-61

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Shyaulyay, Šauļi, Шяуляй, Şyaulyay, شياولياي, Шаўлі, 希奥利艾, Шавли, Šiauliai, Šiaulē, Շյաուլյայ, Shawllay, シャウレイ, شئولئی, שאולאי, เชาเล, Шауляй, שאַװל, Шаўляй, شاولیای, Saule, შიაულიაი, Šäuläi, เช็วเลย์, Σιαουλιάι, Saulės miestas, Szawle, Шјауљај, Šavli, Šauli, Schaulen, Шавєль, شیاؤلیائی, ഷൗലയ്, 샤울랴이, Comune urbano di Siauliai, Comune urbano di Šiauliai, SQQ, Sauli, Shauljaj, Shaulyay, Shavli, Shjaulaj, Shjauljaj, Siaouliai, Siaule, Siauliai, Siauliu, Sjaulaj, Sokniai, Syaulyay, cheale, shaurei, shiauliai, shiʾoልyayi, shyawlyay, shyawlyayy, shywlyayy, si'a'uli'a'i, siyauliya'i, syaullyai, xi ao li ai, Ŝjaulaj, Şiauliai, Šiaulių, شیاولیای, شیولیائی, सियौलियाई, শিয়ৌলিয়াই, ਸਿਆਉਲਿਆਈ, ሺዖልያይ

Capital CityMajor HubHistoric CityPilgrimage SiteCulturalFamily-FriendlyBudget-Friendly